Three views of space.

Interesting lecture note from GGRA02H3

Geography and space: Human geography is inherently concerned with space. The followings are three important implications for the way we understand the world and conceptualize space.

- Absolute space - units of territory which can be numerically measured and are ontologically given (i.e. they exist independently of the way they are perceived - they are real). Space is ready to be filled by the features that make up geographies. Referred as cartographic space - measured in units

- Relative space - space is 'perceived' by humans and this perception may vary according to their culture, available technology and resources. It is the 'sense of space' rather than actual measurement. It constructs and is constructed by human activity and experience.

- Metaphorical space - Space that does not refer to any territorial unit at all. The 'space of views' - thinkers in one paradigm might be spread out but don't share an absolute space. For example, internet, virtual reality, and the advent of cyberspace. It doesn't exist 'on the ground' but it can have real effects.

(Murray W. E. (2005). Geographies of globalization. New York: Routledge)